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Tulloch C, Hing N, Browne M, Russell AMT, Rockloff M, Rawat V. Harm-to-self from gambling: A national study of Australian adults. J Behav Addict 2024; 13:635-649. [PMID: 38743487 PMCID: PMC11220818 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2024.00025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Aims Understanding how gambling harm is distributed is essential to inform effective harm reduction measures. This first national Australian study of gambling harm-to-self examined the extent, distribution, risk factors, and health related quality of life (HRQoL) impacts of this harm. Methods A Random Digit Dialling sample of 15,000 Australian adults was weighted to key population variables. Key measures included the Gambling Harms Scale-10 (GHS-10), PGSI, SF-6D, gambling behaviours, and demographics. Analyses included ordinal logistic regression. Results Amongst gamblers, 14.7% reported harm on the GHS-10, including 1.9% reporting high-level harm. While high-level harm occurred mainly in the problem gambling group (77.3%), other PGSI groups accounted for most of the more prevalent low (98.5%) and moderate (87.2%) harms reported. Proximal predictors of greater harm were use of online gambling and more frequent gambling on electronic gaming machines (EGMs), race betting sports betting, poker, skin gambling, scratchies, and loot box purchasing. Distal predictors were being younger, male, single, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, and speaking a non-English language at home. At the population level, the greatest aggregate HRQoL impacts were amongst lower-risk gamblers, confirming the results of other studies regarding the 'prevention paradox'. Conclusions The distribution of harm across gambler risk groups indicates the need for preventive measures, not just interventions for problem gambling. Reducing harm requires modifying product features that amplify their risk, especially for EGMs, race betting and sports betting that are both inherently risky and widely used. Gambling harm exacerbates health disparities for disadvantaged and vulnerable groups, requiring targeted resources and support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Tulloch
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Australia
| | - Nerilee Hing
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Australia
| | - Matthew Browne
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Australia
| | - Alex M. T. Russell
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Australia
| | - Matthew Rockloff
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Australia
| | - Vijay Rawat
- Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Australia
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Vigna-Taglianti FD, Martorana M, Viola E, Renna M, Vadrucci S, Sciutto A, Andrà C, Mehanović E, Ginechesi M, Vullo C, Ceccano A, Casella P, Faggiano F. Evaluation of Effectiveness of the Unplugged Program on Gambling Behaviours among Adolescents: Study Protocol of the Experimental Controlled Study "GAPUnplugged". JOURNAL OF PREVENTION (2022) 2024; 45:405-429. [PMID: 38416313 DOI: 10.1007/s10935-024-00772-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Gambling risk behaviour is an emerging problem among adolescents. "Unplugged" is an effective Social Influence curriculum for preventing substance use among students. This study aims to develop and test a new component focused on gambling added to the Unplugged program. Schools of Piedmont region and Rome city were invited to participate in the study. A self-completed anonymous questionnaire including questions on socio-demographic characteristics, addictive behaviours, beliefs, attitudes and risk perceptions about gambling, normative perceptions, parental practices, school climate, refusal skills, impulsiveness, self-esteem, antisocial behaviours and sensation seeking was prepared for baseline and follow-up surveys. The protocol of the study was submitted and approved by the Novara Ethical Committee and registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05630157, Protocol ID: 080.742, 11/17/2022). Twenty-nine schools accepted to participate in the study. Sixty-three classes (1325 students) satisfied the eligibility criteria for intervention and were allocated to the intervention arm, and the other 61 (1269 students) were allocated to the control arm. Because of drop-out, absentees, refusals, and invalid questionnaires, data on 1874 students (998 in the intervention and 876 in the control arm), were available for the analysis at baseline. Data management of follow-up questionnaires is in progress. Results of the present study will be useful to clarify the effectiveness of prevention interventions in reducing gambling behaviours among adolescents. Moreover, this will be the first experience of evaluating a new component focused on a different risk behaviour, added to a curriculum previously shown as effective on other risk behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica D Vigna-Taglianti
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Eastern Piedmont, via Solaroli 17, 28100, Novara, Italy.
| | - Marco Martorana
- Epidemiology Unit, ASL Vercelli, Vercelli, Italy
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Eastern Piedmont, Vercelli, Italy
- Department of Statistics, Computer Science, and Applications "Giuseppe Parenti" (DiSIA), University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Erica Viola
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Eastern Piedmont, Vercelli, Italy
| | - Mariaelisa Renna
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Eastern Piedmont, via Solaroli 17, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Serena Vadrucci
- Department of Prevention, Hygiene and Public Health Unit, ASL Città di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Alberto Sciutto
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Eastern Piedmont, Vercelli, Italy
| | - Chiara Andrà
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Eastern Piedmont, Vercelli, Italy
| | - Emina Mehanović
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Eastern Piedmont, via Solaroli 17, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Maria Ginechesi
- Department of Mental Health, Addiction Unit, ASL Roma1, Roma, Italy
| | - Claudia Vullo
- Department of Mental Health, Addiction Unit, ASL Roma1, Roma, Italy
| | - Adalgisa Ceccano
- Department of Mental Health, Addiction Unit, ASL Roma1, Roma, Italy
| | - Pietro Casella
- Department of Mental Health, Addiction Unit, ASL Roma1, Roma, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Faggiano
- Epidemiology Unit, ASL Vercelli, Vercelli, Italy
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Eastern Piedmont, Vercelli, Italy
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Wilson C, Butler N, Quigg Z. Harms from Other People's Gambling: Associations with an Individual's Own Gambling Behaviours, Health Risk Behaviours, Financial Problems, General Health, and Mental Wellbeing. J Gambl Stud 2024:10.1007/s10899-024-10291-w. [PMID: 38489134 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-024-10291-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore relationships between being an 'affected other' (AO) and an individual's own gambling, health risk behaviours, financial problems, poor general health, and low mental wellbeing. A cross-sectional survey using representative and supplementary convenience samples was undertaken with 1234 residents of a British Island aged 16 + years. Being an AO was measured as having a partner or relative who has been gambling regularly in the past 12 months. PGSI was used to assess gambling severity. Health risk behaviours included: poor diet, low physical activity, daily smoking, and binge drinking. Other measures included experiencing financial problems, poor general health, and low mental wellbeing. Analyses were performed using χ2 and binary logistic regressions. 11.0% of participants were AOs. AOs were more likely to gamble at at-risk/problem-gambling levels and experience financial problems compared to those who were not affected others. The significant relationship between being an AO and low mental wellbeing was mediated by experiencing financial problems. The relationship between being an AO and engaging in two or more health risk behaviours was no longer significant after controlling for sociodemographics and an individual's own gambling. The relationship between being an AO and poor general health was no longer significant after controlling for sociodemographics, health risk behaviours and an individual's own gambling. AOs experienced risks to health and wellbeing, with findings not limited to AOs specifically with a relationship to an individual with problem-gambling. Therefore, support for AOs should be more widely available, aiming to address AOs' needs holistically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charley Wilson
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moores University, 3rd Floor Exchange Station, Liverpool, L3 2ET, UK.
| | - Nadia Butler
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moores University, 3rd Floor Exchange Station, Liverpool, L3 2ET, UK
| | - Zara Quigg
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moores University, 3rd Floor Exchange Station, Liverpool, L3 2ET, UK
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Sohn YS, Son H. Online Gambling Patterns and Predictors of Problem Gambling Among Korean Adolescents During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-sectional Study. Asian Nurs Res (Korean Soc Nurs Sci) 2024; 18:20-27. [PMID: 38244980 DOI: 10.1016/j.anr.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study examined online gambling patterns among Korean adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic and identified predictors of problem gambling based on a socio-ecological model. METHODS It used nationally representative data from the 2020 National Survey on Youth Gambling Problems conducted by the Korea Center on Gambling Problems. This study selected a sample of 780 adolescents aged 13-18 years who reported having gambled online at least once in the last three months from the raw data of respondents. They were classified as the non-problem group and problem group according to the Gambling Problems Severity Scale (GPSS) of the Canadian Adolescent Gambling Inventory (CAGI). The predictive factors of problem gambling were analyzed by logistic regression analysis. RESULTS The prevalence of problem gambling was 24.6 %. Its predictors included intrapersonal [male (odds ratios, OR = 1.67); gambling prior to COVID-19 (OR = 2.08)] and interpersonal factors [frequent gamblers in peers (OR = 4.34); peer pressure (OR = 2.34)]. Social factors, such as gambling in online community (OR = 5.60), sports betting (OR = 53.24), and lotteries (OR = 17.03) were associated with problem gambling. CONCLUSIONS The major predictors of problem gambling among adolescent online gamblers included peer gambling and specific types of gambling. To prevent problem gambling, strategies targeting peer groups are essential. In addition, nurses need to share with families, schools, communities, and policymakers that online gambling, such as lotteries and sports betting, are high-risk of adolescent problem gambling, and recommend them to collaborate for stricter regulatory measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Sil Sohn
- College of Nursing, Pusan National University, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunmi Son
- College of Nursing, Research Institute of Nursing Science, Pusan National University, Republic of Korea.
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Eriksen JW, Fiskaali A, Zachariae R, Wellnitz KB, Oernboel E, Stenbro AW, Marcussen T, Petersen MW. Psychological intervention for gambling disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Behav Addict 2023; 12:613-630. [PMID: 37450372 PMCID: PMC10562823 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2023.00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Increasingly, gambling features migrate into non-gambling platforms (e.g., online gaming) making gambling exposure and problems more likely. Therefore, exploring how to best treat gambling disorder (GD) remains important. Our aim was to review systematically and quantitatively synthesize the available evidence on psychological intervention for GD. Methods Records were identified through searches for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating psychological intervention for GD via six academic databases without date restrictions until February 3, 2023. Study quality was assessed with the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB2). Primary outcomes were GD symptom severity and remission of GD, summarized as Hedges' g and odds ratios, respectively. The study was preregistered in PROSPERO (#CRD42021284550). Results Of 5,541 records, 29 RCTs (3,083 participants analyzed) were included for meta-analysis of the primary outcomes. The efficacy of psychological intervention across modality, format and mode of delivery corresponded to a medium effect on gambling severity (g = -0.71) and a small effect on remission (OR = 0.47). Generally, risk of bias was high, particularly amongst early face-to-face interventions studies. Discussion and conclusions The results indicate that psychological intervention is efficacious in treating GD, with face-to-face delivered intervention producing the largest effects and with strongest evidence for cognitive behavioral therapy. Much remains to be known about the long-term effects, and investigating a broader range of treatment modalities and digital interventions is a priority if we are to improve clinical practice for this heterogeneous patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob W. Eriksen
- The Research Clinic on Gambling Disorders, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Anne Fiskaali
- The Research Clinic on Gambling Disorders, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Robert Zachariae
- Department of Psychology and Behavioural Science, Aarhus University, Denmark
- Department of Oncology, Unit for Psychooncology and Health Psychology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Kaare B. Wellnitz
- The Research Clinic for Functional Disorders and Psychosomatics, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Eva Oernboel
- The Research Clinic for Functional Disorders and Psychosomatics, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Anna W. Stenbro
- The Research Clinic on Gambling Disorders, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Thomas Marcussen
- The Research Clinic on Gambling Disorders, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Marie W. Petersen
- The Research Clinic for Functional Disorders and Psychosomatics, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
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Banerjee N, Chen Z, Clark L, Noël X. Behavioural expressions of loss-chasing in gambling: A systematic scoping review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 153:105377. [PMID: 37648042 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
BANERJEE Nilosmita., CHEN Zhang., CLARK Luke., NOËL Xavier. Behavioural expressions of loss-chasing in gambling: A systematic scoping review NEUROSCI BIOBEHAV REV 152(1) XXX-XXX, 2023. - Loss-chasing, the tendency to continue and/or intensify gambling following losses, is a key clinical symptom in gambling disorder and a central feature endorsed by at-risk problem gamblers. Despite its centrality, loss-chasing has been often operationalised across distinct behavioural expressions. The current systematic scoping review aimed to map the heterogeneous operationalisations of loss-chasing in the literature. The reviewed studies defined loss-chasing either between-sessions (n = 39) or within-sessions (n = 38), as a long-recognised distinction. For both categories, further behavioural expressions could be distinguished. Between-session loss-chasing was captured by endorsing an item 'returning another day/time to recoup losses', or behaviourally as the interval between successive sessions, or as increasing stakes in the next session. Within-session loss-chasing was defined as continuing and/or intensifying gambling either by increased risk-taking, stake size, or speed of play. Additionally, much heterogeneity was observed in the gambling contexts examined, the exact definition of loss, and the potential delineation of win-chasing. Open questions and future directions are discussed. Overall, this paper serves as a first step towards more conceptual clarity of loss-chasing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilosmita Banerjee
- Laboratory of Medical Psychology and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Psychology, Université libre de Bruxelles, Belgium.
| | - Zhang Chen
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Ghent University, Belgium.
| | - Luke Clark
- Centre for Gambling Research, Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
| | - Xavier Noël
- Laboratory of Medical Psychology and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Psychology, Université libre de Bruxelles, Belgium.
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Shaffer HJ, Ladouceur R, Blaszczynski A. A Comment: Positive Play is a Subset of Responsible Gambling. J Gambl Stud 2023; 39:1019-1025. [PMID: 36973506 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-023-10204-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Confronted with criticisms focused on the nature of Responsible Gambling (RG), this article suggests that Positive Play (PP) is a conceptual subset of Responsible Gambling and not a fully developed and independent harm prevention or reduction framework. To advance public health initiatives and focus public policy. This article reviews and clarifies some of the confusing and subtle difference between Responsible Gambling and Positive Play. The discussion defines the notion of responsibility, Responsible Gambling, and Positive Play. We recognize that well-developed RG activities permit and encourage the underpinnings of PP. However, when viewed as a dependent measure, PP does not intend to reduce the prevalence of gambling-related harms or prevent the incidence of gambling-related harms. These objectives are the two basic and fundamental requirements to classify any activity as a RG program.
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Murch WS, Kairouz S, Dauphinais S, Picard E, Costes JM, French M. Using machine learning to retrospectively predict self-reported gambling problems in Quebec. Addiction 2023. [PMID: 36880253 DOI: 10.1111/add.16179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Participating in online gambling is associated with an increased risk for experiencing gambling-related harms, driving calls for more effective, personalized harm prevention initiatives. Such initiatives depend on the development of models capable of detecting at-risk online gamblers. We aimed to determine whether machine learning algorithms can use site data to detect retrospectively at-risk online gamblers indicated by the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI). DESIGN Exploratory comparison of six prominent supervised machine learning methods (decision trees, random forests, K-nearest neighbours, logistic regressions, artificial neural networks and support vector machines) to predict problem gambling risk levels reported on the PGSI. SETTING Lotoquebec.com (formerly espacejeux.com), an online gambling platform operated by Loto-Québec (a provincial Crown Corporation) in Quebec, Canada. PARTICIPANTS N = 9145 adults (18+) who completed the survey measure and placed at least one bet using real money on the site. MEASUREMENTS Participants completed the PGSI, a self-report questionnaire with validated cut-offs denoting a moderate-to-high-risk (PGSI 5+) or high-risk (PGSI 8+) for experiencing past-year gambling-related problems. Participants agreed to release additional data about the preceding 12 months from their user accounts. Predictor variables (144) were derived from users' transactions, apparent betting behaviours, listed demographics and use of responsible gambling tools on the platform. FINDINGS Our best classification models (random forests) for the PGSI 5+ and 8+ outcome variables accounted for 84.33% (95% CI = 82.24-86.41) and 82.52% (95% CI = 79.96-85.08) of the total area under their receiver operating characteristic curves, respectively. The most important factors in these models included the frequency and variability of participants' betting behaviour and repeat engagement on the site. CONCLUSIONS Machine learning algorithms appear to be able to classify at-risk online gamblers using data generated from their use of online gambling platforms. They may enable personalized harm prevention initiatives, but are constrained by trade-offs between their sensitivity and precision.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Spencer Murch
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sylvia Kairouz
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sophie Dauphinais
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Elyse Picard
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean-Michel Costes
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Martin French
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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How gambling problems relate to health and wellbeing in Australian households: Evidence from the Household Income and Labour Dynamics of Australia Survey. Addict Behav 2023; 137:107538. [PMID: 36368277 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2022.107538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Gambling harms can impact the health and wellbeing of both individuals who gamble and those close to them. While harms occur across a spectrum of gambling risk levels, most research is conducted on people close to those gamblers who have severe problems. This study examined the health and wellbeing of people living with gamblers across the entire spectrum of gambling risk levels, via secondary analysis of the nationally-representative Household Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia Survey (HILDA). The subsample of interest comprised 13,698 respondents without a gambling problem of their own, aged between 15 and 84, and who lived in households where all residents completed the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI). Health and wellbeing were measured via the SF-6D, the SF-36, and subjective wellbeing measures. Compared to those living in non-problem gambling households, participants living in problem-gambling households reported significantly lower mean SF-6D scores, lower scores on the SF-36 mental health domain, and significantly less satisfaction with both their financial situation and with feeling part of their local community. Participants living in moderate-risk gambling households also reported less satisfaction with their financial situation than those in non-problem gambling households. Conclusions: The results indicate that measurable impacts to the health and wellbeing of those living with gamblers occur predominantly at the more severe end of the risk level spectrum, except for financial dissatisfaction, which is also evident in those residing with gamblers categorised as moderate-risk.
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Bijker R, Booth N, Merkouris SS, Dowling NA, Rodda SN. Global prevalence of help-seeking for problem gambling: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Addiction 2022; 117:2972-2985. [PMID: 35830876 PMCID: PMC9796401 DOI: 10.1111/add.15952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Multiple studies have examined barriers and facilitators to help-seeking, but the prevalence of help-seeking for problem gambling (PG) is not well established. We aimed to estimate the international prevalence of help-seeking for PG among the general population and among subgroups of people at risk for PG (i.e. low-risk, moderate-risk and PG). METHODS Systematic search of grey literature (through gambling repositories, gambling research institutes and Google) and peer-reviewed literature (through ProQuest, PsycINFO, PubMed and Scopus) for gambling prevalence studies that reported on help-seeking for PG. This review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses. Studies used representative sampling methods to determine the prevalence of gambling participation and data collection 2010 onward. Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria. The main outcome was population prevalence of help-seeking for PG. Help-seeking was defined as any intentional action to change gambling behaviours, including professional services (inclusive of in-person or distance help), non-professional help (e.g. from family and friends) and self-help. Subgroup analyses were conducted to explain variability in help-seeking prevalence estimates. RESULTS Measurement of help-seeking was inconsistent across included studies and, overall, there was high risk of bias. We estimated a general population help-seeking prevalence for PG of 0.23% (95% CI, 0.16-0.33). Prevalence estimates were significantly higher in studies assessing lifetime (0.50%; 95% CI, 0.35-0.71) compared with current help-seeking (0.14%; 95% CI, 0.10-0.20, P < 0.001), but there was no evidence of difference in prevalence estimates by gambling participation, region, type of help-seeking, or year of data collection. Compared with people with low-risk gambling (0.27%; 95% CI, 0.07%-1.04%), prevalence estimates were significantly higher in those with moderate-risk (3.73%; 95% CI, 2.07%-6.63%) and problem gambling (20.63%; 95% CI, 12.89%-31.35%, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS One in 25 moderate-risk gamblers and 1 in 5 people with problem gambling have sought help for problems related to their gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rimke Bijker
- School of Population HealthUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Natalia Booth
- School of Population HealthUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | | | - Nicki A. Dowling
- School of PsychologyDeakin UniversityGeelongAustralia,Melbourne Graduate School of EducationUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleAustralia
| | - Simone N. Rodda
- School of Population HealthUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand,School of PsychologyDeakin UniversityGeelongAustralia
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Wilson C, Butler N, Quigg Z. Associations between playing free-to-play sports gambling predictor games and online sports betting frequency for men in the United Kingdom. J Public Health (Oxf) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10389-022-01774-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Aim
This study aimed to describe associations between playing predictor games and online sports betting behaviours, and problem gambling.
Methods
An online survey using a convenience sample was completed by males aged 18 + years, living in the United Kingdom, and having participated in any gambling activity in the past year (n = 384). The survey asked questions about sociodemographics, gambling behaviours and predictor game playing behaviours. The Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) tool was used to determine existence of at-risk and problem gambling. Bivariate analyses using X2, and multivariate analyses using binary logistic regressions were carried out.
Results
Predictor games were played by 45.8% of all participants. In bivariate analyses, there was an association between predictor game playing and age (p = 0.019), with predictor game playing most prevalent in the age group 18–24 years 51.8%. In bivariate analysis, there was a significant graded relationship between playing predictor games and PGSI group (p < 0.001), with predictor game playing most prevalent among those with problem gambling 76.9%. In multivariate analysis, after controlling for sociodemographics and PGSI group, those who played predictor games were 2.80 (1.65–4.74 p < 0.001) times more likely to engage in high frequency online sports gambling than those who did not play predictor games.
Conclusions
This study suggests there may be links between playing predictor games and gambling harms through increased frequency of online sports gambling, particularly amongst already vulnerable groups. Policy options placing restrictions on the most harmful inducements – one of which being predictor games – must be considered to protect against gambling harms.
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12
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Browne M, Russell AMT, Begg S, Rockloff MJ, Li E, Rawat V, Hing N. Benchmarking gambling screens to health-state utility: the PGSI and the SGHS estimate similar levels of population gambling-harm. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:839. [PMID: 35473621 PMCID: PMC9044680 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13243-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Both the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) and the Short Gambling Harms Screen (SGHS) purport to identify individuals harmed by gambling. However, there is dispute as to how much individuals are harmed, conditional on their scores from these instruments. We used an experienced utility framework to estimate the magnitude of implied impacts on health and wellbeing. METHODS We measured health utility using the Short Form Six-Dimension (SF-6D), and used this as a benchmark. All 2603 cases were propensity score weighted, to balance the affected group (i.e., SGHS 1+ or PGSI 1+ vs 0) with a reference group of gamblers with respect to risk factors for gambling harm. Weighted regression models estimated decrements to health utility scores attributable to gambling, whilst controlling for key comorbidities. RESULTS We found significant attributable decrements to health utility for all non-zero SGHS scores, as well as moderate-risk and problem gamblers, but not for PGSI low-risk gamblers. Applying these coefficients to population data, we find a similar total burden for both instruments, although the SGHS more specifically identified the subpopulation of harmed individuals. For both screens, outcomes on the SF-6D implies that about two-thirds of the 'burden of harm' is attributable to gamblers outside of the most severe categories. CONCLUSIONS Gambling screens have hitherto provided nominal category membership, it has been unclear whether moderate or 'at-risk' scores imply meaningful impact, and accordingly, population surveys have typically focused on problem gambling prevalence. These results quantify the health utility decrement for each category, allowing for tracking of the aggregate population impact based on all affected gamblers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Browne
- School of Medical, Health & Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Bundaberg B8 G.47 University Dr, Branyan, QLD, 4670, Australia.
| | - Alex M T Russell
- School of Medical, Health & Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Bundaberg B8 G.47 University Dr, Branyan, QLD, 4670, Australia
| | - Stephen Begg
- La Trobe Rural Health School, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Matthew J Rockloff
- School of Medical, Health & Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Bundaberg B8 G.47 University Dr, Branyan, QLD, 4670, Australia
| | - En Li
- School of Medical, Health & Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Bundaberg B8 G.47 University Dr, Branyan, QLD, 4670, Australia
| | - Vijay Rawat
- School of Medical, Health & Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Bundaberg B8 G.47 University Dr, Branyan, QLD, 4670, Australia
| | - Nerilee Hing
- School of Medical, Health & Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Bundaberg B8 G.47 University Dr, Branyan, QLD, 4670, Australia
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13
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Kaggwa MM, Mamum MA, Najjuka SM, Muwanguzi M, Kule M, Nkola R, Favina A, Kihumuro RB, Munaru G, Arinaitwe I, Rukundo GZ, Griffiths MD. Gambling-related suicide in East African Community countries: evidence from press media reports. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:158. [PMID: 35073902 PMCID: PMC8785390 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12306-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gambling activities and associated mental health problems have become a topic of increased concern globally. Many individuals with a severe gambling disorder have gambling-related suicidality. However, no study has explored gambling-related suicide in East African Community (EAC) countries. The present study investigated the press media reporting of gambling-related suicide cases from EAC countries. Methods As there is no established suicide database in that region, media reports were utilized to collect gambling-related suicide data. Gambling-related suicide case reports were searched for in EAC countries’ press media websites using Google. After removing duplicates, a total of 18 suicides were found. Results The victims were all males aged 16 to 40 years. The most prevalent reason for the death was university students who had used their university tuition fees for gambling and losing the money (n = 4/17). All the suicide deaths were in Kenya (10/18), Uganda (7/18), and Tanzania (1/18). Betting on soccer was the most common type of gambling reported (n = 11/15), and hanging was the most used mode of suicide (n = 10/16). Conclusions Based on the press media reports, 18 males were identified as having carried out gambling-related suicides. The countries with the most widespread opportunities to gamble had more gambling-related suicides, although the number of suicides was very small.
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14
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Kojo T, Ae R, Kosami K, Ishikawa S, Innami I. Prevention paradox between stroke and multiple potential risk factors using data from a population-based cohort study. Prev Med 2021; 153:106857. [PMID: 34687729 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2021.106857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have found the prevention paradox in the association between stroke events and a single specific risk factor, indicating that a population-based strategy may be more effective than a high-risk-based strategy for prevention. We tested the hypothesis that the prevention paradox does not apply when focusing on multiple potential risk factors simultaneously. The study cohort included 9051 individuals from Japan aged 40-89 years. The time-dependent Cox proportional-hazards models were used to identify the primary risk factor associated with stroke onset. We classified participants based on risk factors in two distinct ways: 1) classifying the high-risk group participants according to a single specific risk factor that had a large association with stroke in both sexes and all ages and 2) classifying the high-risk group participants according to 1-3 risk factor(s) including hypertension, hyperglycemia, and/or dyslipidemia. Then, we compared the proportions of the total number of participants who developed stroke in both groups to assess the prevention paradox. We found that hypertension was a primary risk factor for stroke incidence, regardless of sex and age. The percentage of patients with a single specific risk of and developed stroke was 46%-63%, while the percentage of patients with 1-3 risk factor(s) was 71-83%. This finding leads to the conclusion that the prevention paradox does not hold when multiple stroke risk factors were associated, suggesting that a high-risk-based strategy that focuses on patients with multiple risk factors may be more effective in preventing strokes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takao Kojo
- Department of Health Management, Undergraduate School of Health Studies, Tokai University, Kanagawa, Japan.
| | - Ryusuke Ae
- Division of Public Health, Center for Community Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan.
| | - Koki Kosami
- Division of Public Health, Center for Community Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan.
| | - Shizukiyo Ishikawa
- Division of Public Health, Center for Community Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan.
| | - Ichiro Innami
- Department of Policy Management, Faculty of Policy Management, Keio University, Kanagawa, Japan.
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15
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Grönroos T, Kouvonen A, Kontto J, Salonen AH. Socio-Demographic Factors, Gambling Behaviour, and the Level of Gambling Expenditure: A Population-Based Study. J Gambl Stud 2021; 38:1093-1109. [PMID: 34606033 PMCID: PMC9653360 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-021-10075-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between socio-demographic factors, gambling behaviour, and the level of gambling expenditure. The data were drawn from the population-based Gambling Harms Survey 2016 and 2017 conducted in Finland. The data were linked to register-based variables. Past-year gamblers were included (Wave 1; n = 5 805, both Waves; n = 2 165). The study showed that of the 4.2 % of gamblers that produced 50.0 % of the total GE in 2016, 33.1 % of the GE was produced by those with a gambling problem and 43.3 % by those with at-risk gambling pattern. Compared to gamblers in the lowest GE group, those in the highest GE group were more likely to be men, aged 25 or older, with upper secondary education, have a high income, be on disability pension or sickness allowance, be frequent gamblers, gambling at least six game types, and showing at-risk and problem gambling patterns. Cumulative weekly GE by income tertiles remained fairly stable between the years. The results suggest that GE is highly concentrated. Among the small group of high-intensity consumers, the majority of the revenue comes from at-risk and problem gambling. Participants in the low GE group differ from those in the intermediate and high GE groups in terms of socio-demographics and gambling behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Grönroos
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland. .,Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Anne Kouvonen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Jukka Kontto
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anne H Salonen
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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16
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Vita A, Bastiani L, Turrina C, Benedetti E, Bergamini A, Molinaro S. At-risk gambling in patients with severe psychiatric illness and in community subjects matched for age and sex. Psychiatry Res 2021; 304:114142. [PMID: 34340131 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.114142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In the recent literature the rates of gambling in psychiatric patients have been compared only indirectly with those found in community samples and no study has so far matched a clinical sample with community controls. We selected 875 outpatients attending two community mental health centers and 3.500 community subjects, matched for age and sex. At-risk gambling was defined according to the four categories of the Canadian Problem Gambling Index (CPGI) scores: 0 no-risk, 1-2 low-risk, 3-7 moderate-risk, 8+ high-risk. Data were also collected on substance, alcohol, and tobacco use. Patients were diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, unipolar depression, cluster B personality. At-risk gambling was significantly higher in psychiatric patients compared to community subjects. In the univariate multinomial logistic regression analysis, high-risk gambling was associated with lifetime substance use and being unmarried, moderate-risk with age at onset of alcohol use and lifetime tobacco use, and low-risk with higher education. In the multinomial logistic regression analysis high risk-gambling in psychiatric patients was four times that of community controls, while in substance users high-risk gambling was two times that of non-users. The results suggest that screening for gambling could improve the care of psychiatric patients who suffer from a comorbid behavioral addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Vita
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Sciences, University of Brescia, Italy. Department of Mental Health, ASST-Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - Luca Bastiani
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Council of Research (CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Cesare Turrina
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Sciences, University of Brescia, Italy. Department of Mental Health, ASST-Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Elisa Benedetti
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Council of Research (CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Annalisa Bergamini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Sciences, University of Brescia, Italy. Department of Mental Health, ASST-Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - Sabrina Molinaro
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Council of Research (CNR), Rome, Italy
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17
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van der Maas M, Nower L, Saniewski K. Responsible gambling strategy information available on public-facing state lottery websites in the U.S. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2021.1946125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mark van der Maas
- Center for Gambling Studies, School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Lia Nower
- Center for Gambling Studies, School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Kyra Saniewski
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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18
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Delfabbro P, Georgiou N, King DL. Measuring Gambling Harm: The Influence of Response Scaling on Estimates and the Distribution of Harm Across PGSI Categories. J Gambl Stud 2021; 37:583-598. [PMID: 32424665 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-020-09954-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Recent research has shown that harm is not just a feature of problem gambling, but can also be observed in other lower risk categories. Some debates exist, however, as to the distribution of harm across these categories and how harm should be best measured. This study was designed to examine how estimates of self-reported harm are affected by the methodology used. A particular focus was on how harm estimates for low and higher risk gambling (as classified by the PGSI) varied when respondents were able to make more graded attributions of their harm to gambling. An online panel sample of 554 gamblers responded to a brief survey that included the PGSI, measures of gambling harm drawn from Browne et al. (Assessing gambling-related harm in Victoria: a public health perspective, Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation, Melbourne, 2016) as well as questions about demographics and gambling habits. The recruitment was designed to obtain good representation of each PGSI group, with 23% found to be problem gamblers; 36% moderate risk and 21% low risk gamblers. In support of Browne et al. (2016), the findings showed that higher proportions of harm in low risk gamblers is likely to be identified when one uses binary or 'any harm' scoring, but that this effect mostly disappears when more graded scoring or attribution of harm measures are used. Higher risk PGSI groups consistently reported more harms and more serious harms than lower risk groups. It was concluded that the measurement of gambling harm and its estimated distribution over PGSI categories is quite sensitive to how it is measured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Delfabbro
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
| | | | - Daniel L King
- College of Education, Psychology, and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
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19
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Browne M, Rawat V, Tulloch C, Murray-Boyle C, Rockloff M. The Evolution of Gambling-Related Harm Measurement: Lessons from the Last Decade. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18094395. [PMID: 33919050 PMCID: PMC8122250 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Jurisdictions around the world have a self-declared mandate to reduce gambling-related harm. However, historically, this concept has suffered from poor conceptualisation and operationalisation. However, recent years have seen swift advances in measuring gambling harm, based on the principle of it being a quantifiable decrement to the health and wellbeing of the gambler and those connected to them. This review takes stock of the background and recent developments in harm assessment and summarises recent research that has validated and applied the Short Gambling Harms Screen and related instruments. We recommend that future work builds upon the considerable psychometric evidence accumulated for the feasibility of direct elicitation of harmful consequences. We also advocate for grounding harms measures with respect to scalar changes to public health utility metrics. Such an approach will avoid misleading pseudo-clinical categorisations, provide accurate population-level summaries of where the burden of harm is carried, and serve to integrate gambling research with the broader field of public health.
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20
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Raybould JN, Larkin M, Tunney RJ. Is there a health inequality in gambling related harms? A systematic review. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:305. [PMID: 33549082 PMCID: PMC7866763 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10337-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Here we present a systematic review of the existing research into gambling harms, in order to determine whether there are differences in the presentation of these across demographic groups such as age, gender, culture, and socioeconomic status, or gambling behaviour categories such as risk severity and participation frequency. Primary and secondary outcome measures Inclusion criteria were: 1) focus on gambling harms; 2) focus on harms to the gambler rather than affected others; 3) discussion of specific listed harms and not just harms in general terms. Exclusion criteria were: 1) research of non-human subjects; 2) not written in English; 3) not an empirical study; 4) not available as a full article. Methods We conducted a systematic search using the Web of Science and Scopus databases in August 2020. Assessment of quality took place using Standard Quality Assessment Criteria. Results A total of 59 studies published between 1994 and 2020 met the inclusion criteria. These were categorised into thematic groups for comparison and discussion. There were replicated differences found in groups defined by age, socioeconomic status, education level, ethnicity and culture, risk severity, and gambling behaviours. Conclusion Harms appear to be dependent on specific social, demographic and environmental conditions that suggests there is a health inequality in gambling related harms. Further investigation is required to develop standardised measurement tools and to understand confounding variables and co-morbidities. With a robust understanding of harms distribution in the population, Primary Care Workers will be better equipped to identify those who are at risk, or who are showing signs of Gambling Disorder, and to target prevention and intervention programmes appropriately. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-10337-3.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Larkin
- School of Psychology, Aston University, Birmingham, B7 4ET, UK
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21
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Muggleton N, Parpart P, Newall P, Leake D, Gathergood J, Stewart N. The association between gambling and financial, social and health outcomes in big financial data. Nat Hum Behav 2021; 5:319-326. [PMID: 33542528 DOI: 10.1038/s41562-020-01045-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Gambling is an ordinary pastime for some people, but is associated with addiction and harmful outcomes for others. Evidence of these harms is limited to small-sample, cross-sectional self-reports, such as prevalence surveys. We examine the association between gambling as a proportion of monthly income and 31 financial, social and health outcomes using anonymous data provided by a UK retail bank, aggregated for up to 6.5 million individuals over up to 7 years. Gambling is associated with higher financial distress and lower financial inclusion and planning, and with negative lifestyle, health, well-being and leisure outcomes. Gambling is associated with higher rates of future unemployment and physical disability and, at the highest levels, with substantially increased mortality. Gambling is persistent over time, growing over the sample period, and has higher negative associations among the heaviest gamblers. Our findings inform the debate over the relationship between gambling and life experiences across the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Muggleton
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK. .,Warwick Business School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK. .,Applied Science, Lloyds Banking Group, London, UK.
| | - Paula Parpart
- Warwick Business School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.,Applied Science, Lloyds Banking Group, London, UK.,Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Philip Newall
- Warwick Manufacturing Group, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.,School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQ University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David Leake
- Applied Science, Lloyds Banking Group, London, UK
| | - John Gathergood
- School of Economics, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Neil Stewart
- Warwick Business School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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22
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Charting a path towards a public health approach for gambling harm prevention. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH-HEIDELBERG 2021; 29:37-53. [PMID: 33432287 PMCID: PMC7787930 DOI: 10.1007/s10389-020-01437-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Aim Gambling harm is a serious public health issue affecting the health, financial security, and social well-being of millions of people and their close relations around the world. Despite its population health implications, gambling harm is not typically viewed and treated as a public health policy issue. This paper critically reviews the evolution of the public health perspective on gambling harm. It also considers how gambling harm can be operationalized within a public health model. Methods A critical historical review of the emerging public health perspective on gambling harm was conducted. Key documents covering three decades of development were reviewed and appraised through a process of deliberation and debate over source impact in the fields of research, policy, and programming internationally. Results The first decade mainly focused on identifying gambling harm and framing the public health issue. The second decade featured the expansion of health assessment and emerging areas of policy and program development. The third decade saw an increased focus on public health frameworks that advanced understanding of harm mechanics and impact. As reflected by the essential functions of a general public health model, gambling harm prevention efforts emphasize health promotion over other key functions like health assessment and surveillance. Conclusion Gambling harm is a public health issue requiring greater attention to health assessment and surveillance data development.
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23
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Currie SR, Hodgins DC, Williams RJ, Fiest K. Predicting future harm from gambling over a five-year period in a general population sample: a survival analysis. BMC Psychiatry 2021; 21:15. [PMID: 33413234 PMCID: PMC7792302 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-03016-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is little longitudinal evidence on the cumulative risk of harm from gambling associated with excess spending and frequency of play. The present study sought to assess the risk of gambling problems over a five-year period in adults who exceed previously derived low-risk gambling limits compared to those who remain within the limits after controlling for other modifiable risk factors. METHODS Participants were adults (N = 4212) drawn from two independent Canadian longitudinal cohort studies who reported gambling in the past year and were free of problem gambling at time 1. Multivariate Cox regression was employed to assess the impact over time of gambling above low-risk gambling thresholds (frequency ≥ 8 times per month; expenditure ≥75CAD per month; percent of household income spent on gambling ≥1.7%) on developing moderate harm and problem gambling. Covariates included presence of a DSM5 addiction or mental health disorder at time 1, irrational gambling beliefs, number of stressful life events in past 12 months, number of game types played each year, and playing electronic gaming machines or casino games. RESULTS In both samples, exceeding the low-risk gambling limits at time 1 significantly increased the risk of moderate harm (defined as ≥2 consequences on the Problem Gambling Severity Index [PGSI]) within 5 years after controlling for other modifiable risk factors. Other significant predictors of harm were presence of a mental disorder at time 1, cognitive distortions about gambling, stressful life events, and playing electronic gaming machines or casino games. In one sample, the five-year cumulative survival rate for moderate harm among individuals who stayed below all the low-risk limits was 95% compared to 83% among gamblers who exceeded all limits. Each additional low-risk limit exceeded increased the cumulative probability of harm by 30%. Similar results were found in models when the outcome was problem gambling. CONCLUSIONS Level of gambling involvement represents a highly modifiable risk factor for later harm. Staying below empirically derived safe gambling thresholds reduces the risk of harm over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn R Currie
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. N.W., Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada.
- Alberta Health Services - Calgary Zone, 10101 Southport Rd SW, Calgary, AB, T2W 3N2, Canada.
| | - David C Hodgins
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. N.W., Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Robert J Williams
- University of Lethbridge Faculty of Health Sciences, 4401 University Drive, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Kirsten Fiest
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada
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24
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A framework for indirect elicitation of the public health impact of gambling problems. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1717. [PMID: 33198709 PMCID: PMC7670710 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09813-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Gambling problems are increasingly understood as a health-related condition, with harms from excessive time and money expenditure contributing to significant population morbidity. In many countries, the prevalence of gambling problems is known with some precision. However, the true severity of gambling problems in terms of their impact on health and wellbeing is the subject of ongoing debate. We firstly review recent research that has attempted to estimate harm from gambling, including studies that estimate disability weights using direct elicitation. Limitations of prior approaches are discussed, most notably potential inflation due to non-independent comorbidity with other substance use and mental health conditions, and potential biases in the subjective attribution of morbidity to gambling. An alternative indirect elicitation approach is outlined, and a conceptual framework for its application to gambling is provided. Significant risk factors for propensity to develop gambling problems are enumerated, and relative risks for comorbidities are calculated from recent meta-analyses and reviews. Indirect elicitation provides a promising alternative framework for assessing the causal link between gambling problems and morbidity. This approach requires implementation of propensity score matching to estimate the counterfactual, and demands high quality information of risk factors and comorbid conditions, in order to estimate the unique contribution of gambling problems. Gambling harm is best understood as a decrement to health utility. However, achieving consensus on the severity of gambling problems requires triangulation of results from multiple methodologies. Indirect elicitation with propensity score matching and accounting for comorbidities would provide an important step towards full integration of gambling within a public health paradigm.
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25
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Uwiduhaye MA, Niyonsenga J, Muhayisa A, Mutabaruka J. Gambling, Family Dysfunction and Psychological Disorders: A Cross- Sectional Study. J Gambl Stud 2020; 37:1127-1137. [PMID: 33141413 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-020-09986-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to identify predictors and effects of problem gambling and examine the moderating role of family dysfunction between problem gambling and its effects. A sample of 104 gamblers (all were men, Mean = 26.2, SD = 6.8), was recruited from gambling venues in an urban area of Musanze district, Northern Province of Rwanda. Participants were aged above the legal age of 16 years. Data were collected using the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), the Brief Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (Brief MAST), Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST-10), the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R), the Big Five Inventory (BFI), the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) and the Family Dysfunction Test. SPSS (version22) was used to carry out all statistical analyses. Results showed that personality traits predicted problem gambling. Additionally, problem gambling was associated with alcohol use, drug abuse, sleep deprivation, antisocial tendency and family dysfunction. Family dysfunction moderated the effects of problem gambling on drug abuse, alcohol use and sleep deprivation. Gambling is a complex but assessable phenomenon and future studies may explore further its correlates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Japhet Niyonsenga
- Clinical Psychology Department, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda.
| | - Assumpta Muhayisa
- Clinical Psychology Department, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jean Mutabaruka
- Clinical Psychology Department, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
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Lindner P, Forsström D, Jonsson J, Berman AH, Carlbring P. Transitioning Between Online Gambling Modalities and Decrease in Total Gambling Activity, but No Indication of Increase in Problematic Online Gambling Intensity During the First Phase of the COVID-19 Outbreak in Sweden: A Time Series Forecast Study. Front Public Health 2020; 8:554542. [PMID: 33117770 PMCID: PMC7550730 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.554542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The COVID-19 outbreak will likely have a public health impact beyond immediate disease transmission. Little is known about whether social distancing and other societal changes has provoked an increase in gambling, whether decreased betting opportunities due to paused sports events spurred gamblers to transition to online casino gambling, or whether any of these factors have had an impact on problem gambling. Methods: Data on lookup queries against the Swedish Gambling Paus registry, logging all initiated gambling sessions by all licensed gambling providers, from 2019-01-01 (start of registry) to 2020-04-08 (well into the first phase of the outbreak) were analyzed using TBATS time series forecasting to estimate trends after the first domestic COVID-19 death. Obfuscated data on daily total wagered and deposited amounts, split by modality (casino or betting, and low and high intensity, respectively) for the equivalent period were supplied by a licensed online gambling provider. Results: Total gambling activity decreased by 13.29% during the first phase of the outbreak compared to forecast. Analyses of online gambling data revealed that although betting decreased substantially in synchrony with a slight increase in online casino gambling, there was no increase in likely problematic, high-intensity gambling and neither did total online gambling increase. Conclusions: This first, preliminary study revealed no increase in Swedish gambling activity, total or specifically online, in the first phase of the COVID-19 outbreak. Future research should examine whether pandemic-induced transitioning between gambling modalities and/or increased participation in gambling, leads to long-term effects on prevalence of problem gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Lindner
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - David Forsström
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jakob Jonsson
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anne H Berman
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per Carlbring
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Jonsson J, Hodgins DC, Munck I, Carlbring P. Reaching out to big losers leads to sustained reductions in gambling over 1 year: a randomized controlled trial of brief motivational contact. Addiction 2020; 115:1522-1531. [PMID: 31977104 DOI: 10.1111/add.14982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS A previous randomized controlled trial demonstrated that telephone- and letter-based motivational interventions with high-expenditure gamblers had significant short-term positive effects on gambling and use of responsible gambling tools. This post-trial follow-up examined outcomes in gambling expenditure over 12 months. DESIGN Observational study following a three-arm randomized controlled trial. SETTING Customers of Norsk Tipping (NT) gambling platforms, Norway. PARTICIPANTS A total of 1003 statistical triplets from the top 0.5% of customers based upon annual expenditure, matched on sex, age and net losses. Mean age was 53.4 years; 19% were women, mean yearly loss for 2016 was 88 197 NoK. Interventions and comparator Feedback intervention by telephone, letter or a no-contact control condition. MEASUREMENTS Primary outcome measure was gambling theoretical loss, derived from the NT customer database. Secondary outcomes were responsible gambling customer actions and whether or not the participant was retained as an NT customer. FINDINGS Per-protocol analyses of triplets who received the telephone call or letter as randomly assigned (n = 596) showed a positive and sustained effect over 12 months: the telephone group showed a 30% reduction in theoretical loss (d = 0.44) and the letter group 13% (d = 0.18), both outperforming the control group with a 7% reduction (d = 0.11). The telephone condition was superior to both the letter and control conditions in per-protocol (P < 0.001) and to control condition in intention-to-treat analyses (ITT) (P < 0.001). Individuals in the telephone condition took more responsible gambling actions. The letter condition had better outcomes than the control in the ITT-only analysis (P < 0.001). More than 93% were still customers a year after the intervention. CONCLUSIONS Personal contact with high-expenditure gambling customers in Norway that provided individualized feedback on expenditures was associated with reduced theoretical losses and greater use of responsible gambling tools over a 12-month period, compared with no contact. Telephone intervention with customers had a larger impact than a mailed letter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob Jonsson
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - David C Hodgins
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Ingrid Munck
- Department of Education and Special Education, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Per Carlbring
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Throuvala MA, Griffiths MD, Rennoldson M, Kuss DJ. Mind over Matter: Testing the Efficacy of an Online Randomized Controlled Trial to Reduce Distraction from Smartphone Use. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E4842. [PMID: 32635650 PMCID: PMC7369880 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17134842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Evidence suggests a growing call for the prevention of excessive smartphone and social media use and the ensuing distraction that arises affecting academic achievement and productivity. A ten-day online randomized controlled trial with the use of smartphone apps, engaging participants in mindfulness exercises, self-monitoring and mood tracking, was implemented amongst UK university students (n = 143). Participants were asked to complete online pre- and post-intervention assessments. Results indicated high effect sizes in reduction of smartphone distraction and improvement scores on a number of self-reported secondary psychological outcomes. The intervention was not effective in reducing habitual behaviours, nomophobia, or time spent on social media. Mediation analyses demonstrated that: (i) emotional self-awareness but not mindful attention mediated the relationship between intervention effects and smartphone distraction, and (ii) online vigilance mediated the relationship between smartphone distraction and problematic social media use. The present study provides preliminary evidence of the efficacy of an intervention for decreased smartphone distraction and highlights psychological processes involved in this emergent phenomenon in the smartphone literature. Online interventions may serve as complementary strategies to reduce distraction levels and promote insight into online engagement. More research is required to elucidate the mechanisms of digital distraction and assess its implications in problematic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melina A. Throuvala
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK; (M.D.G.); (D.J.K.)
| | - Mark D. Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK; (M.D.G.); (D.J.K.)
| | - Mike Rennoldson
- Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK;
| | - Daria J. Kuss
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK; (M.D.G.); (D.J.K.)
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29
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The changing epidemiology of gambling disorder and gambling-related harm: public health implications. Public Health 2020; 184:41-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2020.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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30
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Browne M, Volberg R, Rockloff M, Salonen AH. The prevention paradox applies to some but not all gambling harms: Results from a Finnish population-representative survey. J Behav Addict 2020; 9:371-382. [PMID: 32644932 PMCID: PMC8939417 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2020.00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The Prevention Paradox (PP) suggests that a large proportion of aggregate harm from gambling occurs to people who do not have a gambling disorder. However, it has not yet been tested using a population-representative sample. We aimed to test whether the PP applies to gambling in Finland. The prevalence rates of diverse harmful consequences from gambling were surveyed amongst a population-representative sample of past-year gamblers. METHODS The study used first wave data (N = 7,186) of Finnish Gambling Harms survey, collected via online and postal surveys in 2017. A subset of 3,795 adults (≥18 years), who had gambled at least monthly in 2016, were selected for analysis. MEASUREMENTS Gambling-related harms were evaluated with the 72-item Harms Checklist. Problem and Pathological Gambling Measure (PPGM) measured respondents' probable disordered gambling from the subset of items for impaired control (4 questions) and other issues (3 questions). FINDINGS Consistent with previous findings, the majority of harms were reported by those in the less severe PPGM categories (i.e. scoring <5). However, considering each domain separately, this was true only for financial, emotional/psychological, and work/study harms. The PP was not supported for health, relationship, or social deviance harms. CONCLUSIONS The population prevalence of the most serious harms (e.g. unsafe living conditions) is concentrated among those with severe impaired control issues. However, even excluding the ∼15% of harms occurring to occasional gamblers, most financial, emotional and work/study impacts occur to those with lower levels of control issues. Efforts at harm reduction should focus on the entire spectrum of issues that people experience from their gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Browne
- Central Queensland University Bundaberg, Australia,Corresponding author's e-mail:
| | - Rachel Volberg
- School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, USA
| | | | - Anne H. Salonen
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Public Health Solutions, Helsinki, Finland,University of Eastern Finland, Faculty of Health Sciences, Finland
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31
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Miller L, Gordh AS. High Recreational Gamblers Show Increased Stimulatory Effects of an Acute Laboratory Gambling Challenge. J Gambl Stud 2020; 37:299-318. [PMID: 32406011 PMCID: PMC7882579 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-020-09952-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Gambling in moderation is a socially acceptable behavior and over 60% of the Swedish population gambles every year. It has been seen that slot machines are one of the most addictive and problematic forms of gambling and contribute highly to an addictive behavior.
It is unclear why some individuals intensify their gambling behavior over time to extreme levels while others do not. Initial positive response of a drug or as in this case a gambling behavior, most likely influences the likelihood of continuing use in non-addicted individuals. Therefore, we wanted to investigate if recreational gamblers show an altered subjective response to an online gambling challenge, e.g. to casino gambling. The present study was designed to examine the subjective effects after an acute gambling challenge, in healthy recreational gamblers compared with non-gamblers. Eighty-two subjects participated in the study. They were challenged with an acute online slot machine gambling challenge and self-report questionnaires of mood and blood pressure were taken before and after gambling. The gamblers, and more specifically the high recreational gamblers, reported increased stimulative effects after the gambling challenge in comparison to the non-gamblers. Findings suggests that gamblers experience significantly higher arousal effects to an acute online slot machine challenge. This response may be a uniquely predictive behavior for increased risk of gambling addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Miller
- Addiction Biology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Blå stråket 15, SU/Sahlgrenska, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - A Söderpalm Gordh
- Addiction Biology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Blå stråket 15, SU/Sahlgrenska, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Beroendekliniken, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
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32
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On the Limits and Challenges of Public Health Approaches in Addressing Gambling-Related Problems. Int J Ment Health Addict 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-020-00276-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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33
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Escario JJ, Wilkinson AV. Exploring predictors of online gambling in a nationally representative sample of Spanish adolescents. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2019.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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34
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Delfabbro P, King DL. Challenges in the Conceptualisation and Measurement of Gambling-Related Harm. J Gambl Stud 2019; 35:743-755. [PMID: 30879158 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-019-09844-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This paper examines the significance of recent developments in research relating to gambling-related harm. Previous research, it is argued, has failed to capture gambling-harm in a way that is useful to inform public policy and regulation. This is because most standardised psychometric measures and the DSM classifications have conflated gambling behaviour and harm and mostly focused on serious harms. As a result, little has generally been known about the prevalence of harm in lower risk gambling groups. Here we summarise the findings from recent harm research, the methodologies used and their conceptual implications. It is argued that strong progress has been made in the categorization and measurement of gambling harm, but that caution must be applied when applying these measures to estimate the 'burden of disease' associated with gambling in the community. Particular issues discussed include: the differentiation of opportunity cost and harm; the validity of additive methods involving different severities of measured harm; using comparisons with unfamiliar disorders; and the validity of prevention paradox arguments in this area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Delfabbro
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Nth Tce., Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | - Daniel L King
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Nth Tce., Adelaide, SA, Australia
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35
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Abstract
Gambling markets have grown rapidly for the last few decades. As a result, gambling is also a very important and common source of tax income for many governments these days. This raises a question about the overall fairness of the gambling taxation systems. In this paper, we aim to study the tax incidence of gambling in Finland. First, we analyse who are the expected payers of the gambling taxes and second, who are expected to be the receivers of the gambling-tax based contributions. In the first part of the study, we analyse the demographic incidence of gambling taxation by using the Finnish gambling 2015 population survey combined with registry based variables. Our data contains 3776 individuals. In the second part of the study, we use data of county level gambling-taxation based contributions to different organisations to analyse how the gambling expenditures are distributed back to citizens in a form of public spending. This study shows that different socio-demographic factors have diverse association with the decisions whether or how much to gamble. The results also suggest that more disadvantaged, i.e. lower income, less educated and rural area living, individuals are expected to be the “losers” of the Finnish gambling taxation system. In other words, the Finnish gambling system is found to be regressive by nature.
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36
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Rafi J, Ivanova E, Rozental A, Lindfors P, Carlbring P. Participants' Experiences of a Workplace-Oriented Problem Gambling Prevention Program for Managers and HR Officers: A Qualitative Study. Front Psychol 2019; 10:1494. [PMID: 31333538 PMCID: PMC6616087 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Workplace health promotion programs (WHPPs) refer to a set of health promotion and protection strategies implemented at a worksite and designed to meet the health and safety needs of employees. One important question for WHPPs is how middle management experience their participation in a WHPP. This study aims to explore this question further by applying a qualitative content analysis to interviews with thirteen managers and ten human resource officers participating in a WHPP focusing on problem gambling. The WHPP consisted of two components: policy implementation and skills-development training. The participants were interviewed about their experiences of these two components and the implementation process. The qualitative content analysis resulted in six themes: (1) Expectations of the skills-development training, (2) Experiences of and prior beliefs about problem gambling, (3) A good foundation, (4) The difficult conversation, (5) Appreciated aspects of the training sessions, and (6) Remaining obstacles. The results suggest that the presentation of cases, facts, and general knowledge was appreciated by most participants. However, participants also expressed that they would benefit from tailored interventions, more support in the policy implementation process, and following up on the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Rafi
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Alexander Rozental
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Petra Lindfors
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per Carlbring
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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37
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McMahon N, Thomson K, Kaner E, Bambra C. Effects of prevention and harm reduction interventions on gambling behaviours and gambling related harm: An umbrella review. Addict Behav 2019; 90:380-388. [PMID: 30529994 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2018.11.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Harms related to gambling have been found not only to affect problem gamblers, but also to occur amongst low- and moderate-risk gamblers. This has resulted in calls for a public health approach to address a possible 'prevention paradox' in gambling related harm. The aim of this study was to evaluate the systematic review evidence base on the effects of prevention and harm reduction interventions on gambling behaviours, and gambling related harm. We also aimed to examine differential effects of interventions across socio-demographic groups. METHODS Systematic methods were used to locate and evaluate published systematic reviews of prevention and harm reduction interventions. We designed the review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Equity extension Guidelines. Four databases were searched from their start date until May 2018. The quality of the included articles was determined using A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR 2). RESULTS Ten systematic reviews were identified reporting 55 unique relevant primary studies. Much of the review evidence-base related to pre-commitment and limit setting (24%), self-exclusion (20%), youth prevention programmes (20%), and machine messages/feedback (20%). The effectiveness of harm reduction interventions are limited by the extent to which users adhere to voluntary systems. Less than half of studies examining youth prevention programmes demonstrated positive effects on behaviour. No review extracted data or reported on the differential effects of intervention strategies across sociodemographic groups. The quality of the included reviews (and their primary studies) were generally poor and clear gaps in the evidence base have been highlighted. CONCLUSIONS The evidence base is dominated by evaluations of individual-level harm reduction interventions, with a paucity of research on supply reduction interventions. Review conclusions are limited by the quality and robustness of the primary research. Future research should consider the equity effects of intervention strategies.
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38
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Costes JM, Kairouz S, Monson E, Eroukmanoff V. Where Lies the Harm in Lottery Gambling? A Portrait of Gambling Practices and Associated Problems. J Gambl Stud 2018. [PMID: 29536292 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-018-9761-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Lotteries are one of the most prevalent forms of gambling and generate substantial state revenues. They are also argued to be one of the least harmful forms of gambling. This paper is one of the first to examine exclusive lottery gamblers and compares their gambling patterns and problems as well other associated risky behaviours to those who are not exclusive lottery gamblers. Data were derived from two large surveys conducted with representative adult samples in France (n = 15,635) and Québec (n = 23,896). Participants were separated into two groups: exclusive lottery gamblers (ELGs) and non-exclusive lottery gamblers. Using multivariate analysis, study results reveal that ELGs, who represent two thirds of gamblers, generally exhibit less intensive gambling patterns and are less likely to report other risky behaviours. However, harms associated with moderate risk and problem gambling are found to be concentrated in specific subpopulations for both groups, primarily males, older individuals, and those who report lower income and education level. Given widespread participation in lotteries and concentration of harm within specific subgroups, these findings point to the need for prevention efforts despite the lower levels of harm associated with lottery gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Michel Costes
- Observatoire des Jeux, Ministère des Finances, Télédoc 774, 139 rue de Bercy, 75572, Paris Cedex, France
| | - Sylvia Kairouz
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Lifestyle and Addiction Research Lab, Concordia University, 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W., Montreal, QC, H3G 1M8, Canada.
| | - Eva Monson
- Université de Sherbrooke, 150, Place Charles Lemoyne bureau 200, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada
| | - Vincent Eroukmanoff
- Observatoire des Jeux, Ministère des Finances, Télédoc 774, 139 rue de Bercy, 75572, Paris Cedex, France
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39
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Mindfulness in Schools: a Health Promotion Approach to Improving Adolescent Mental Health. Int J Ment Health Addict 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-018-0001-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
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40
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Myles D, Carter A, Yücel M. Cognitive neuroscience can support public health approaches to minimise the harm of 'losses disguised as wins' in multiline slot machines. Eur J Neurosci 2018; 50:2384-2391. [PMID: 30276920 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Video slot machines are associated with both accelerated transition into problematic forms of gambling, as well as psychosocial harm above and beyond other forms of gambling. A growing body of evidence is uncovering how key design features of multiline slot machines produce an inflated experience of reward, despite the fact that these features offer no overall financial benefit to the player. A pernicious example of this are 'losses disguised as wins' (LDWs), which occur when simultaneous bets placed on multiple lines result in a winning combination that returns an amount greater than zero, but less the total wager. These events are usually accompanied by the same celebratory sounds and animations that accompany true wins. We argue that LDWs may leverage neuropsychological phenomena that underlie reinforcement learning and contribute to extended or repetitive use and gambling-related harm. While other characteristics of slot machine gambling have been examined by cognitive neuroscientists, this feature has not yet received attention. Neuroscientific methods can be used to assess the impact of LDWs on the human reward system, to assess the claim that these events are a reinforcing and contributing factor in the development of harmful play. Positive findings would provide further persuasive evidence in support of strategies to minimise gambling harm through the regulation of machine design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Myles
- Brain and Mental Health Research Hub, Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences and School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 770 Blackburn Rd, Clayton, Vic, 3800, Australia
| | - Adrian Carter
- Brain and Mental Health Research Hub, Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences and School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 770 Blackburn Rd, Clayton, Vic, 3800, Australia
| | - Murat Yücel
- Brain and Mental Health Research Hub, Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences and School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 770 Blackburn Rd, Clayton, Vic, 3800, Australia
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41
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Nigro G, Ciccarelli M, Cosenza M. Tempting fate: Chasing and maladaptive personality traits in gambling behavior. Psychiatry Res 2018; 267:360-367. [PMID: 29957554 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2018.05.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 05/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Chasing, or continuing to gamble in an attempt to recoup losses, is a salient feature of problematic gambling. This study, which controlled for gambling severity and alcohol consumption, investigated the association between chasing and maladaptive personality trait domains among habitual gamblers. Participants comprised 126 adult habitual gamblers (73% males) aged between 18 and 69 years. They were administered the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), the Personality Inventory for DSM-5-Brief Form (PID-5-BF), the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), and a computerized task developed to assess chasing behavior. Participants were randomly assigned to two chasing conditions (Control and Loss). Data were submitted to correlational analysis, univariate and mixed-model ANOVAs, logistic and linear regression analyses. Results showed that the decision to chase was strongly associated with the PID-5-BF Disinhibition domain scores, whereas chasing proneness was related to the Disinhibition, Detachment and Psychoticism domains. Interestingly, chasers scored higher than nonchasers on maladaptive personality dimensions, even after controlling for gender, age, chasing condition, alcohol consumption, and gambling severity. Since these findings support the idea that chasers and nonchasers are different subtypes of gamblers, clinical interventions should take into account the additive role of chasing in gambling disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Nigro
- Department of Psychology, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Viale Ellittico, 31 81100, Caserta, Italy.
| | - Maria Ciccarelli
- Department of Psychology, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Viale Ellittico, 31 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Marina Cosenza
- Department of Psychology, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Viale Ellittico, 31 81100, Caserta, Italy
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42
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Salonen AH, Kontto J, Perhoniemi R, Alho H, Castrén S. Gambling expenditure by game type among weekly gamblers in Finland. BMC Public Health 2018; 18:697. [PMID: 29871617 PMCID: PMC5989364 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-5613-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Excessive expenditure and financial harms are core features of problem gambling. There are various forms of gambling and their nature varies. The aim was to measure gambling expenditure by game type while controlling for demographics and other gambling participation factors. A further aim was to find out how each game type was associated with gambling expenditure when the number of game types played is adjusted for. METHODS Using data from the 2015 Finnish Gambling survey on adult gamblers (n = 3555), multiple log-linear regression was used to examine the effects of demographics, gambling participation, and engaging in different game types on weekly gambling expenditure (WGE) and relative gambling expenditure (RGE). RESULTS Male gender, lower education level, higher gambling frequency and higher number of game types increased both WGE and RGE, while younger age decreased WGE but increased RGE. Furthermore, seven specific game types increased both WGE and RGE. Weekly horse race betting and non-monopoly gambling had the strongest increasing effect on expenditure. Betting games and online poker were associated with higher expenditure even when they were played less often than weekly. Among weekly gamblers the highest mean WGE was recorded for those who played non-monopoly games (146.84 €/week), online poker (59.61 €/week), scratch games (51.77 €/week) and horse race betting (48.67 €/week). Those who played only 1-2 game types a week had the highest mean WGE and RGE on horse race betting and other betting games. CONCLUSIONS It seems that overall gambling frequency is the strongest indicator of high gambling expenditure. Our results showed that different game types had different effect sizes on gambling expenditure. Weekly gambling on horse races and non-monopoly games had the greatest increasing effect on expenditure. However, different game types also varied based on their popularity. The extent of potential harms caused by high expenditure therefore also varies on the population level. Based on our results, future prevention and harm minimization efforts should be tailored to different game types for greater effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne H. Salonen
- Alcohol, Drugs and Addictions Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jukka Kontto
- Public Health Evaluation and Projection Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Riku Perhoniemi
- Alcohol, Drugs and Addictions Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannu Alho
- Alcohol, Drugs and Addictions Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland
- Abdominal Center, University and University Hospital of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sari Castrén
- Alcohol, Drugs and Addictions Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Psychology and Speech-Language Pathology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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Bergamini A, Turrina C, Bettini F, Toccagni A, Valsecchi P, Sacchetti E, Vita A. At-risk gambling in patients with severe mental illness: Prevalence and associated features. J Behav Addict 2018; 7:348-354. [PMID: 29865864 PMCID: PMC6174579 DOI: 10.1556/2006.7.2018.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims The primary objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of at-risk gambling in a large, unselected sample of outpatients attending two community mental health centers, to estimate rates according to the main diagnosis, and to evaluate risk factors for gambling. Methods All patients attending the centers were evaluated with the Canadian Problem Gambling Index and the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview. Diagnoses were checked with the treating psychiatrists and after a chart review of the university hospital discharge diagnoses. Results The rate of at-risk gambling in 900 patients was 5.3%. In those who gambled over the last year, 10.1% were at-risk gamblers. The rates in the main diagnostic groups were: 4.7% schizophrenia and related disorders, 4.9% bipolar disorder, 5.6% unipolar depression, and 6.6% cluster B personality disorder. In 52.1% of the cases, at-risk gambling preceded the onset of a major psychiatric disorder. In a linear regression analysis, a family history of gambling disorder, psychiatric comorbidities, drug abuse/dependence, and tobacco smoking were significantly associated with at-risk gambling. Discussion and conclusion The results of this study evidenced a higher rate of at-risk gambling compared to community estimates and call for a careful screening for gambling in the general psychiatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Bergamini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Cesare Turrina
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy,Department of Mental Health, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy,Corresponding author: Prof. Cesare Turrina; Department of Mental Health, ASST Spedali Civili 1, 25100 Brescia, Italy; Phone: +39 030 3995233; Fax: +39 030 3384089; E-mail:
| | - Francesca Bettini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Anna Toccagni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Paolo Valsecchi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Emilio Sacchetti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Antonio Vita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy,Department of Mental Health, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
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Abstract
Background The prevention paradox (PP) describes a situation in which a greater number of cases of a disease-state come from low-risk members of a population, because they are more prevalent than high-risk members. Past research has provided only tangential and disputed evidence to support the application of the PP to gambling-related harm. Aims To assess whether the PP applies to gambling, the prevalence of a large set (72) of diverse harmful consequences from gambling was examined across four risk categories for problem gambling, including no-risk, low-risk, moderate-risk, and problem-gambling. Methods Respondents who had gambled on non-lottery forms in the past 6 months completed an online survey (N = 1,524, 49.4% male). The data were weighted to the known prevalence of gambling problems in the Victorian community. Results The prevalence of gambling harms, including severe harms, was generally higher in the combined categories of lower risk categories compared to the high-risk problem-gambling category. There were some notable exceptions, however, for some severe and rare harms. Nevertheless, the majority of harms in the 72-item list, including serious harms such as needing temporary accommodation, emergency welfare assistance, experiencing separation or end of a relationship, loss of a job, needing to sell personal items, and experiencing domestic violence from gambling, were more commonly associated with lower risk gamblers. Conclusion Many significant harms are concentrated outside the ranks of gamblers with a severe mental health condition, which supports a public-health approach to ameliorating gambling-related harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Browne
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Branyan, QLD, Australia,Corresponding author: Matthew Browne; School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Bundaberg Campus, B8 G.47 University Drive, Branyan 4670, QLD, Australia; Phone: +61 7 4150 7002; E-mail:
| | - Matthew J. Rockloff
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Branyan, QLD, Australia
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45
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Jonsson J, Munck I, Volberg R, Carlbring P. GamTest: Psychometric Evaluation and the Role of Emotions in an Online Self-Test for Gambling Behavior. J Gambl Stud 2017; 33:505-523. [PMID: 28265831 PMCID: PMC5445150 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-017-9676-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Recent increases in the number of online gambling sites have made gambling more available, which may contribute to an increase in gambling problems. At the same time, online gambling provides opportunities to introduce measures intended to prevent problem gambling. GamTest is an online test of gambling behavior that provides information that can be used to give players individualized feedback and recommendations for action. The aim of this study is to explore the dimensionality of GamTest and validate it against the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) and the gambler's own perceived problems. A recent psychometric approach, exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) is used. Well-defined constructs are identified in a two-step procedure fitting a traditional exploratory factor analysis model as well as a so-called bifactor model. Using data collected at four Nordic gambling sites in the autumn of 2009 (n = 10,402), the GamTest ESEM analyses indicate high correspondence with the players' own understanding of their problems and with the PGSI, a validated measure of problem gambling. We conclude that GamTest captures five dimensions of problematic gambling (i.e., overconsumption of money and time, and monetary, social and emotional negative consequences) with high reliability, and that the bifactor approach, composed of a general factor and specific residual factors, reproduces all these factors except one, the negative consequences emotional factor, which contributes to the dominant part of the general factor. The results underscore the importance of tailoring feedback and support to online gamblers with a particular focus on how to handle emotions in relation to their gambling behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob Jonsson
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, 106 91, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Ingrid Munck
- Department of Education and Special Education, University of Gothenburg, Östra Varvsgatan 16B, 211 75, Malmö, Sweden.,Professor Emerita, Östra Varvsgatan 16B, 211 75, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Rachel Volberg
- School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University Massachusetts Amherst, PO Box 1390, Northampton, MA, 01061, United States.,Gemini Research, Ltd., PO Box 1390, Northampton, MA, 01061, United States
| | - Per Carlbring
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, 106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
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46
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Castrén S, Perhoniemi R, Kontto J, Alho H, Salonen AH. Association between gambling harms and game types: Finnish population study. INTERNATIONAL GAMBLING STUDIES 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2017.1388830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sari Castrén
- Alcohol, Drugs and Addictions Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology and Speech-Language Pathology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Riku Perhoniemi
- Alcohol, Drugs and Addictions Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jukka Kontto
- Health Monitoring Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannu Alho
- Alcohol, Drugs and Addictions Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Abdominal Center, University and University Hospital of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anne H. Salonen
- Alcohol, Drugs and Addictions Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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47
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Raisamo S. Harm caused by gambling among non-problem gamblers: Is a whole-of-population approach undervalued? Scand J Public Health 2017; 46:503-504. [PMID: 29173046 DOI: 10.1177/1403494817744073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Raisamo
- National Institute for Health and Welfare, The Alcohol, Drugs and Addictions Unit, Finland
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48
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Rafi J, Ivanova E, Rozental A, Carlbring P. Effects of a workplace prevention programme for problem gambling: study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e015963. [PMID: 28951403 PMCID: PMC5623572 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-015963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite being considered a public health problem, no prevention programme for problem gambling in workplace settings has been scientifically evaluated. This study aims to fill a critical gap in the field of problem gambling by implementing and evaluating a large-scale prevention programme in organisations. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Ten organisations, with a total of n=549 managers and n=8572 employees, will be randomised to either receiving a prevention programme or to a waitlist control condition. Measurements will be collected at the baseline and 3, 12 and 24 months after intervention. The primary outcome of interest is the managers' inclination to act when worried or suspicious about an employee's problem gambling or other harmful use. Additional outcomes of interest include the Problem Gambling Severity Index and gambling habits in both managers and employees. Furthermore, qualitative analyses of the responses from semistructured interviews with managers will be performed. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by the regional ethics board of Stockholm, Sweden, and it will contribute to the body of knowledge concerning prevention of problem gambling. The findings will be published in peer-reviewed, open-access journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02925286; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Rafi
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | - Per Carlbring
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Canale N, Rubaltelli E, Vieno A, Pittarello A, Billieux J. Impulsivity influences betting under stress in laboratory gambling. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10668. [PMID: 28878376 PMCID: PMC5587697 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10745-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 08/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Although recent research suggests that acute stress influences subsequent decision-making under ambiguity, less is known about the role of personality variables in this relationship. This study tested whether impulsivity traits and acute stress differentially influence the way in which a prior feedback is incorporated into further decisions involving ambiguity. Sixty college students (50% male; aged 18-25 years) were randomly assigned to a stress versus a non-stress condition before completing a laboratory gambling task. The results revealed that independently of the stress condition, subjects behaved as if the odds of winning increase after a single loss. Additionally, stress effects varied as a function of impulsivity traits. Individuals who lacked perseverance (i.e., had difficulty focusing on a difficult or boring task) gambled more after experiencing a loss in the stress condition than did those in the control condition. The present study supports that impulsivity traits can explain the differential effect of stress on the relationship between prior feedback and choices made under ambiguity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natale Canale
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Enrico Rubaltelli
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Alessio Vieno
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Joël Billieux
- Addictive and Compulsive Behaviour Lab (ACB-Lab). Institute for Health and Behaviour, Integrative Research Unit on Social and Individual Development (INSIDE), University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.,Addiction Division, Department of Mental Health and Psychiatry, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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50
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Abstract
In their critical review of the prevention paradox (PP) applied to gambling-related harm, Delfabbro and King (2017) raise a number of concerns regarding specific assumptions, methods, and findings as well as the general conceptual approach. Besides discussing the PP, the review also considers the merits of considering a "continuum of harm," as opposed to the more traditional categorical approach to classifying problem gamblers. Their critique is carefully modulated and balanced, and starts a useful dialogue in the context of a public health approach to gambling. Unfortunately, some of Delfabbro and King's (2017) arguments rest on the treatment of gambling harm as a binary state and conflates gambling-related harm with disordered gambling. In this reply, we argue that the application of PP logic to gambling harm has not yet been addressed by us, and is only indirectly related to the more important objective of understanding how gambling can reduce ones' quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Browne
- School of Health, Medical, and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Branyan, QLD, Australia,Corresponding author: Matthew Browne; School of Health, Medical, and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, 1 University Drive, Branyan 4670, QLD, Australia; Phone: +61 7 4150 7002; E-mail:
| | - Matthew J. Rockloff
- School of Health, Medical, and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Branyan, QLD, Australia
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